Delhi HC Directs Removal of Bhuvan Bam’s Unauthorised Images Online

The Delhi High Court on Tuesday stepped in to curb the unauthorised online use of popular YouTuber Bhuvan Bam ’s images. The Court directed that all such visuals circulating without his consent be taken down immediately, extending the order not just to named defendants but also to unknown or “John Doe” entities involved in the misuse.

Justice Jyoti Singh made it clear that the relief was limited in scope. While the Court found merit in stopping the unauthorised circulation of Bam’s images at once, it chose not to rule on personality rights at this early stage. The judge noted that such claims need detailed examination and cannot be conclusively decided on the first day of hearing.

Bhuvan Bam, one of India’s biggest digital creators, has a massive fan base with over 26.6 million YouTube subscribers and millions more across Instagram and X. In his suit, he alleged that multiple entities had exploited his name, image, voice and overall persona without permission, largely for commercial gain.

According to the plaint, this unauthorised use included selling merchandise and using his likeness in promotional material. Bam argued that these actions violate his personality and publicity rights, apart from infringing registered trademarks and copyrights jointly owned by him and his company, BB Ki Vines.

The plaintiffs also stressed that Bam’s popularity and brand value are the result of years of consistent creative work. They claimed that unauthorised commercial use by third parties misleads consumers into believing such products or services are officially endorsed by him, causing direct harm to his reputation and brand.

While the Court stopped short of granting immediate protection for personality rights, it acknowledged the urgency of the situation. Justice Singh ordered the removal of all offending links, including those run by unidentified parties, clarifying that this interim relief neither confirms nor denies the broader rights claimed in the suit.

This order aligns with a growing trend of cases before the Delhi High Court, where public figures seek protection against online misuse of their identity. In earlier matters involving celebrities like Pawan Kalyan and Ajay Devgn, the Court has granted interim relief. It has also emphasised that individuals should first approach social media platforms under the IT Rules, 2021, noting that intermediaries often comply with valid takedown requests without the need for court intervention.